Air Fryer Donut Bites Cinnamon

There is something instantly comforting about warm cinnamon sugar donuts but I always hesitated at the thought of deep frying at home. These air fryer donut bites have become my go to sweet fix because they are easy enough for a weeknight treat and taste like a bakery indulgence without the mess. Perfect for a last minute dessert or when you want to wow a brunch table fast.

My family instantly fell in love when I first surprised them with these donut bites after dinner. Now it is our rainy day tradition and everyone gets involved in the rolling and dipping.

Ingredients

• Self raising flour: Provides the signature rise and soft texture look for fresh flour and make sure it has not expired
• Sweetened Greek yogurt: Brings moisture tang and natural sweetness use a thick creamy variety for the best dough
• Granulated sugar: Is essential for achieving a proper crispy cinnamon coating opt for extra fine sugar if you have it
• Ground cinnamon: Adds classic warmth and aroma use freshly ground for the boldest flavor
• Melted butter: Is both for flavor and for helping the cinnamon sugar stick choose unsalted for more control
• Optional melted chocolate: Is just for fun pick a good quality dark or milk chocolate you enjoy eating on its own

Instructions

Make the Dough:

Combine self raising flour and sweetened Greek yogurt in a large mixing bowl. Stir with a spatula until just combined then use your hands to bring it together into a rough mass. Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead with gentle hands for up to two minutes. You know it is ready when it is smooth elastic and leaves no dry pockets.

Shape into Bites:

Divide the dough into two equal pieces and gently shape each into an even log about one inch in diameter. Slice each log into small pieces around eight to twelve grams in size. Roll each in your palms until round and smooth. This is the fun part to get the family involved.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Set your air fryer to one hundred eighty degrees celsius about three hundred fifty six degrees fahrenheit and let it run empty for five minutes. Lightly brush the air fryer basket with neutral oil to ensure easy release once the donuts cook.

Air Fry the Donut Bites:

Toss each ball in melted butter for maximum flavor and crispness. Arrange them in a single layer in the basket leaving a little space between for expansion. Cook for five minutes until puffed and golden. Resist the urge to crowd the basket as this helps them brown.

Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:

While they are still warm from the air fryer brush them one more time with a touch of melted butter. Roll each donut bite thoroughly in the cinnamon sugar mixture for a crisp sweet finish that clings perfectly.

Optional Chocolate Drizzle:

Once they are cool enough to touch drizzle or zig zag with melted chocolate if you are feeling extra fancy. This is a fun optional step especially delightful for kids and chocoholics.

I never get tired of swirling the still warm donut bites through cinnamon sugar. The rich scent reminds me of county fairs and holiday baking with my grandmother who always made sure every piece was generously coated.

Storage Tips

Leftover donut bites store best in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For warm donuts on demand a quick ten second zap in the microwave restores softness. If you want to freeze them let the bites cool fully then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a zip top bag. To serve thaw briefly and reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes.

Ingredient Substitutions

No self raising flour on hand Make your own by whisking plain flour with baking powder for each cup use one and a half teaspoons of baking powder. If you want a less sweet bite plain Greek yogurt can replace the sweetened just add a touch more sugar to the coating.

Serving Suggestions

Pile the donut bites high in a shallow bowl or basket for a brunch spread. They make a great after school treat with a glass of milk or even paired with coffee for a morning pick me up. For parties set out bowls of melted chocolate or caramel as an interactive dipping bar.

Cultural or Historical Context

Donuts have a strong place in food traditions worldwide and have been adapted by cultures everywhere. These particular air fryer bites are inspired by both classic doughnut holes and the cinnamon pastries I found at European markets. The use of Greek yogurt nods to modern twists for tangier flavors and softer texture.

Seasonal Adaptations

Swap ground cinnamon for apple pie spice in fall Add a pinch of cardamom for a wintry touch Toss with citrus zest in spring for brightness

Success Stories

I first brought these to a neighbor potluck and kids and adults swooped in before I could set down the basket. Many friends have asked for the recipe and rave that their air fryer donuts finally taste like a treat. No one misses deep frying.

Freezer Meal Conversion

Make a double batch of the dough bites and air fry as usual. Let cool on a rack then freeze in a flat layer. Pop out as needed for a sweet treat or dessert for unexpected guests.

Take a bite while still warm and savor the cinnamon sugar crust. These air fryer donut bites bring bakery comfort to your own kitchen any time you crave something sweet.

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can I use plain yogurt instead of sweetened Greek yogurt?

Yes, plain yogurt can be used. You may wish to add extra sugar to balance the flavor.

→ How do I prevent donut bites from sticking in the air fryer?

Lightly brush the air fryer basket with oil before placing the dough balls. Avoid overcrowding for even airflow.

→ Can I prepare these donut bites in advance?

They taste best fresh, but you can make ahead and warm them up in the air fryer or oven before serving.

→ What alternatives work for the cinnamon-sugar coating?

Try rolling in powdered sugar, cocoa, or a mix of your favorite spices for unique flavors.

→ Is it possible to skip the chocolate drizzle?

Absolutely! The bites are flavorful on their own, but chocolate adds extra indulgence if desired.